Energized body jewelry

ABSTRACT

Energized body jewelry including alternative embodiments designed to be worn by persons who have piercings in their bodies, as well as for those who do not have piercings. In one embodiment, the jewelry may be worn by a person with a piercing by attaching the jewelry with a barbell style piercing including a slotted or drilled retainer sized to carry the jewelry. In an alternative embodiment, through the use of an elastomeric band attachment means, or a drilled elastomeric band, the jewelry may be worn by a person who does not have a piercing. The jewelry is energized such that it may vibrate, illuminate, or perform other functions requiring energy from some extracorporeal source such as a battery.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Division of application Ser. No. 09/704,207, filed on Nov. 1, 2000, which issued on Dec. 10, 2002 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,490,885 entitled Energized Body Jewelry and Accessories, and which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/571,986, filed on May 16, 2000, which issued on May 7, 2002 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,382,815 entitled Energized Body Jewelry.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0002] The present invention relates generally to body jewelry including alternative embodiments designed to be worn by persons who have piercings in their bodies as well as for those who do not. Although body piercing in today's society has been shifting from a counterculture dominated practice to an increasingly popular activity, a substantial number of persons who could be inclined to join the body piercing community are not quite ready to take that leap. The present invention provides unique energized body jewelry that can be worn by members of the piercing community, but also provides an alternative embodiment that can be worn by those who have not had their bodies pierced.

[0003] In one embodiment, the jewelry may be worn by a person with a piercing by attaching the jewelry with a standard barbell stud style piercing including a slotted or drilled retainer sized to carry the jewelry. In an alternative embodiment, through the use of an elastomeric band attachment means, or a drilled elastomeric band, the jewelry may be worn by a person who does not have a piercing. The jewelry is energized such that it may vibrate, illuminate, or perform other functions requiring energy from some extracorporeal source such as a battery.

[0004] The energizing feature of the invention provides for many alternative uses ranging from the primarily ornamental aspect of an embodiment including an illuminating light source, to the more functional aspects provided through the preferred embodiment including a vibrator. A further embodiment of the invention includes accessories comprising sheaths with alternative configurations designed to cover at least a portion of the body jewelry and provide varying surface features for the jewelry.

[0005] The objects and potential uses of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following description, and various other features and attendant advantages will become more fully appreciated as the invention becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue.

[0007]FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention.

[0008] FIG 1B is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the invention.

[0009]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in the retainer.

[0010]FIG. 2A is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in the retainer.

[0011]FIG. 2B is an exploded view of the post tip assembly of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in the retainer.

[0012]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries in the retainer.

[0013]FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries in the retainer.

[0014]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue, with an external power supply carried by a necklace.

[0015]FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that operates with an external power supply.

[0016]FIG. 4B is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that operates with an external power supply.

[0017]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band.

[0018]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in each of two outer peripheral retainers, and an elastomeric band as its means of attachment.

[0019]FIG. 5B is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in each of two outer peripheral retainers.

[0020]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band.

[0021]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries within the vibrator housing, and an elastomeric band as its means of attachment.

[0022]FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries within the vibrator housing.

[0023]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with a slotted retainer.

[0024]FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0025]FIG. 7B is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0026]FIG. 7C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band.

[0027]FIG. 7D is an exploded view of the post tip assembly of an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0028]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention including a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer.

[0029]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention including a drilled elastomeric band.

[0030]FIG. 10 is a view of three alternative sizes for the drilled elastomeric band.

[0031]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's pierced tongue with a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer.

[0032]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with a drilled elastomeric band.

[0033]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's pierced tongue with a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer and utilizing an external power source.

[0034]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with a drilled elastomeric band and utilizing an external power source.

[0035]FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the invention.

[0036]FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the invention utilizing an external power source.

[0037]FIG. 17A is a side view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0038]FIG. 17B is a cross sectional view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0039]FIG. 18A is a side view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0040]FIG. 18B is a cross sectional view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0041]FIG. 19A is a side view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0042]FIG. 19B is a cross sectional view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0043]FIG. 20A is a side view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

[0044]FIG. 20B is a cross sectional view of an alternative configuration of the sheath accessory embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue. As shown in FIG. 1, jewelry 10 can be worn as a barbell style tongue piercing. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 1A as comprised of vibrator housing 13, post 18, and retainer 20. FIG 1B is a cross sectional view of a single battery embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, battery 22 is located within vibrator housing 13. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 24, rotor shaft 42, and eccentric rotor 44. Motor 24 is secured within housing 13 by motor shim 46, which has an opening 48 that matches motor shoulder 50. Vibrator housing 13 is closed at the rotor end by threaded rotor end cap 16, which is screwed into place with the help of rotor end cap slot 32.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1B, the single battery embodiment of the invention is powered by battery 22, which is secured within housing 13 by threaded battery end cap 14. Battery end cap 14 can be screwed into place with the help of battery end cap slot 30. Battery 22 is placed into housing 13 with the cathode negative electrode end first. The negative end of battery 22 contacts negative battery contact 36, which is held within battery shim 34. When battery end cap 14 is screwed into place, it contacts the anode positive electrode end of battery 22. Plastic septum 26 insulates the negative end of battery 22 from housing 13. Negative motor lead wire 38 is fed through septum opening 28, and terminates with negative battery contact 36.

[0047] As further shown in FIG. 1B, positive motor lead wire 40 is fed through passage 52 in elongated post 18, where positive motor lead wire 40 terminates-with positive contact 56. Post 18 at its top end 17 is press fit into housing 13 and secured by weld 54. Contact tip assembly 25 is comprised of positive contact 56 and insulating post tip 58, which are attached within bottom end 19 of post 18. Positive contact 56 is insulated from post 18 by insulating post tip 58.

[0048] Retainer 20 is screwed onto the threaded bottom end 19 of post 18. When retainer 20 is screwed into place, the circuit between battery 22 and motor 24 is completed as retainer 20 engages positive battery contact 56. When retainer 20 engages contact 56, the circuit is completed as positive contact 56 electrically communicates with retainer 20, which is connected to post 18, and through housing 13 and battery end cap 14, which is in contact with the positive end of battery 22. A person wearing jewelry 10 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainer 20 to the point at which it engages contact 56, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainer 20. This inventive on off switch feature is accomplished with a threaded retainer, which is the standard barbell style tongue jewelry attachment mechanism, operating as the only necessary moving part other than the vibrator itself.

[0049]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery within the retainer as well as in the vibrator housing. Jewelry 200 is shown in FIG. 2 as comprised of vibrator housing 213, post 218, and retainer 220. Jewelry 200 can be worn as a barbell style tongue piercing. FIG. 2A is a cross sectional view of this dual battery embodiment of the invention. In this alternative embodiment, battery 222 is located within vibrator housing 213, and battery 223 is located within retainer 220. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 224 and eccentric rotor 244. Battery end caps 214 and 214A can be screwed into place with the help of battery end cap slots 230 and 230A, which further include vent holes 231 and 231A to allow air to energize the batteries.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2A, batteries 222 and 223 are connected in parallel to motor 224. Batteries 222 and 223 are placed into housing 213 and retainer 220 with the cathode negative electrode end first. The negative lead wire from motor 224 branches off into negative lead wire 238, which terminates at negative battery contact 236, and negative lead wire 238A, which is fed through passage 252 in elongated post 218, where it terminates at negative battery contact 257. As further shown in FIG. 2A, positive motor lead wire 240 is fed through passage 252 in elongated post 218, where it terminates at positive contact ring 271 within contact tip assembly 225.

[0051]FIG. 2B is an exploded view of contact tip assembly 225, which is comprised of post insulator 270, positive contact ring 271, tip insulator 272, tip spacer 273, and negative battery contact tip 257, each of which is attached at bottom end 219 of post 218. Positive motor lead wire 240 terminates at positive contact ring 271, and negative motor lead wire 238A terminates at negative battery contact 257. Post insulator 270 insulates contact tip assembly 225 from post 218, and tip insulator 272 insulates negative battery contact tip 257 from positive contact ring 271.

[0052] Referring back to FIG. 2A, retainer 220 is screwed onto the threaded bottom end 219 of post 218. When retainer 220 is screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 222 and 223, and motor 224, is completed as the negative end of battery 223 within retainer 220 engages negative battery contact 257, and the internal threads of retainer 220 turn past and engage positive contact ring 271. When the negative end of battery 223 engages contact 257, and the internal threads of retainer 220 engage contact ring 257, the parallel circuit is completed as positive contact ring 271 electrically communicates with retainer 220, which is connected to post 218, and through housing 213 and battery end cap 214, which is in contact with the positive end of battery 222.

[0053] A person wearing jewelry 200 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainer 220 to the point at which it engages contact 257, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainer 220. This inventive on off switch feature is accomplished with a threaded retainer, which is the standard barbell style tongue jewelry attachment mechanism, operating as the only necessary moving part other than the vibrator itself.

[0054]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries within the retainer. Jewelry 300 is shown in FIG. 3 as comprised of vibrator housing 313, post 318, and retainer 320. Jewelry 300 can be worn as a barbell style tongue piercing. FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view of this dual battery embodiment of the invention. In this alternative embodiment, batteries 322 and 323 are located within retainer 320. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 324 and eccentric rotor 344. Battery end caps 314A are screwed into place with the help of battery end cap slots 330A, which also operate as vent holes to allow air to energize the batteries.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3A, batteries 322 and 323 are connected in parallel to motor 324. Batteries 322 and 323 are placed into retainer 320 with the cathode negative electrode end first. Positive lead wire 340 from motor 324 is attached to the inner periphery of housing 313. Negative lead wire 338 is fed through passage 352 in elongated post 318, where it terminates at negative battery contact 357.

[0056] As further shown in FIG. 3A, retainer 320 is screwed onto the threaded bottom end 319 of post 318. When retainer 320 is screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 322 and 323, and motor 324, is completed as the negative ends of batteries 322 and 323 within retainer 320 communicate with negative battery contact 357. When retainer 320 is screwed into place, the positive ends of batteries 322 and 323 communicate with positive motor lead wire 340 through housing 313, elongated post 318, retainer 320, and battery end caps 314A.

[0057] A person wearing jewelry 300 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainer 320 to the point at which it engages contact 357, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainer 320. This inventive on off switch feature is accomplished with a threaded retainer, which is the standard barbell style tongue jewelry attachment mechanism, operating as the only necessary moving part other than the vibrator itself.

[0058]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue, with an external power supply carried by a necklace. Jewelry 400 can be worn as a barbell style tongue piercing, with wires 462 connected to external power supply 422, which is carried by necklace 463. Jewelry 400 is shown in FIG. 4A as comprised of vibrator housing 413, post 418, retainer 420, and external wires 462.

[0059]FIG. 4B is a cross sectional view of this externally powered embodiment of the invention. In this alternative embodiment, the vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 424 and eccentric rotor 444. Negative lead wire 438 from motor 424 is attached to the inner periphery of housing 413. Positive lead wire 440 is fed through passage 452 in elongated post 418, where it terminates at positive battery contact 457.

[0060] As further shown in FIG. 4B, retainer 420 is screwed onto the threaded bottom end 419 of post 418. When retainer 420 is screwed into place, the circuit between motor 424 and an external power supply connected to wires 462 is completed as the positive lead of wires 462 communicates with positive contact 457. When retainer 420 is screwed into place, the negative lead of wires 462 communicates with negative motor lead wire 438 through housing 413, elongated post 419, and retainer 420.

[0061] A person wearing jewelry 400 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainer 420 to the point at which it engages contact 457, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainer 420. This inventive on off switch feature is accomplished with a threaded retainer, which is the standard barbell style tongue jewelry attachment mechanism, operating as the only necessary moving part other than the vibrator itself.

[0062]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band. Jewelry 500 is shown in FIG. 5 as attached to a person's tongue with elastomeric band 564. FIG. 5A is a perspective view of this alternative embodiment of the invention that includes a battery in each of two outer peripheral retainers 520. Jewelry 500 is shown in FIG. 5A as comprised of vibrator housing 513, posts 518, outer peripheral retainers 520, and elastomeric band 564. Through the use of the elastomeric band attachment means, jewelry 500 can be worn by a person who does not have a pierced tongue.

[0063]FIG. 5B is a cross sectional view of this dual battery non piercing embodiment of the invention. In this alternative embodiment, batteries 522 and 523 are located within outer peripheral retainers 520. Retainers 520 are connected to vibrator housing 513 by posts 518. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 524 and eccentric rotor 544.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5B, retainers 520 are screwed onto the threaded ends of posts 518. When retainers 520 are screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 522 and 523, and motor 524, is completed as the negative ends of batteries 522 and 523 within retainers 520 communicate with the negative lead wire of motor 524. When retainers 520 are screwed into place, the positive ends of batteries 522 and 523 communicate with the positive lead wire of motor 524 through housing 513, elongated posts 518, and retainers 520. A person wearing jewelry 500 may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainers 520 to their seated position, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainers 520.

[0065]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band. Jewelry 600 is shown in FIG. 6 as attached to a person's tongue with elastomeric band 664. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of this alternative embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries within the vibrator housing. Jewelry 600 is shown in FIG. 6A as comprised of vibrator housing 613, posts 618, outer peripheral retainers 620, and elastomeric band 664. Through the use of the elastomeric band attachment means, jewelry 600 can be worn by a person who does not have a pierced tongue.

[0066]FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of this dual battery non piercing embodiment of the invention. In this alternative embodiment, batteries 622 and 623 are located within vibrator housing 613. Retainers 620 are connected to vibrator housing 613 by posts 618. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 624 and eccentric rotor 644.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 6B, retainers 620 are screwed onto the threaded ends of posts 618. When battery end caps 614 are screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 622 and 623, and motor 624, is completed as the negative ends of batteries 622 and 623 communicate with the negative lead wire of motor 624. When battery end caps 614 are screwed into place, the positive ends of batteries 622 and 623 communicate with the positive lead wire of motor 624 through housing 613. A person wearing jewelry 600 may turn on the vibrator by screwing down battery end caps 614 to their seated position, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of battery end caps 614.

[0068]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the invention attached to a person's pierced tongue. The preferred embodiment may be attached to a person's pierced tongue with a slotted retainer as shown in FIG. 7. Alternatively, through the use of an elastomeric band attachment means as shown in FIG. 7C, the preferred embodiment may be worn by a person who does not have a pierced tongue. This dual use preferred embodiment of the invention includes two batteries in the retainer.

[0069] Jewelry 700 is shown in FIG. 7A as comprised of vibrator housing 713, post 718, retainer 720, slotted retainer 721, secondary post 718A, and secondary retainer 720A. When jewelry 700 is worn by a person with a pierced tongue, slotted retainer 721, secondary post 718A, and secondary retainer 720A function as a standard barbell style tongue piercing, with the additional benefit that slotted retainer 721 has the capability to carry jewelry 700.

[0070]FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the invention attached to a person's tongue with an elastomeric band. Jewelry 700 is shown in FIG. 7C as attached to a person's tongue with elastomeric band 764. This means of attachment may be used for an individual who does not have a pierced tongue.

[0071]FIG. 7B is a cross sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the invention. In this preferred embodiment, batteries 722 and 723 are located within retainer 720. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 724 and eccentric rotor 744. Battery end caps 714A are screwed into place with the help of battery end cap slots 730A, which further include vent holes 731A to allow air to energize the batteries.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 7B, batteries 722 and 723 are connected in parallel to motor 724. Batteries 722 and 723 are placed into retainer 720 with the cathode negative electrode end first. Positive lead wire 740 from motor 724 is attached to the inner periphery of housing 713. Negative lead wire 738 is fed through passage 752 in elongated post 718, where it terminates at negative battery contact 757 within contact tip assembly 725.

[0073]FIG. 7D is an exploded view of contact tip assembly 725, which is comprised of post insulator 770 and negative battery contact 757, each of which is attached at bottom end 719 of post 718. Negative motor lead wire 738 terminates at negative battery contact 757. Post insulator 770 insulates negative battery contact 757 from post 718.

[0074] Referring back to FIG. 7B, retainer 720 is screwed onto the threaded bottom end 719 of post 718. When retainer 720 is screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 722 and 723, and motor 724, is completed as the negative ends of batteries 722 and 723 within retainer 720 communicate with negative battery contact 757. When retainer 720 is screwed into place, the positive ends of batteries 722 and 723 communicate with positive motor lead wire 740 through housing 713, elongated post 718, retainer 720, and battery end caps 714A.

[0075] A person wearing jewelry 700 as a barbell style tongue piercing, or alternatively with the elastomeric band, may turn on the vibrator by screwing down retainer 720 to the point at which it is fully seated, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of retainer 720. This inventive on off switch feature is accomplished with a threaded retainer, which is the standard barbell style tongue jewelry attachment mechanism, operating as the only necessary moving part other than the vibrator itself.

[0076]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention including a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 8 as generally comprising vibrator housing 16, vibrator motor cap 13, and battery housing 20. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 8 attached to a standard barbell stud 18 by inserting vibrator housing 16 through a drilled hole in retainer 21. Retainer 21 is removably attached to the upper end of barbell stud 18, and a second retainer 12 is removably attached to the lower end of barbell stud 18.

[0077]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention including a drilled elastomeric band. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 9 attached to an elastomeric band 64 by inserting vibrator housing 16 through a drilled hole in elastomeric band 64. FIG. 10 is a view of three alternative sizes for the drilled elastomeric band 64.

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, jewelry 10 can be worn as a barbell style tongue piercing by attaching jewelry 10 to a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer 21. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 14, jewelry 10 can be worn by a person without a pierced tongue by using the drilled elastomeric band 64.

[0079]FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the invention that includes two batteries in battery housing 20. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 15 as comprised of vibrator housing 16, vibrator motor cap 13, and battery housing 20. In this embodiment, batteries 22 and 23 are located within battery housing 20. Battery end caps 14 are screwed into place with the help of battery end cap slots 30, which further include vent holes 31 to allow air to energize the batteries. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 24, rotor shaft 42, and eccentric rotor 44. Motor 24 is secured within vibrator housing 16, and enclosed by vibrator motor cap 13.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 15, batteries 22 and 23 are connected in parallel to motor 24. Batteries 22 and 23 are placed into battery housing 20 with the cathode negative electrode end first. The cathode negative electrode ends of batteries 22 and 23 communicate through battery housing cathode 80. The cathode negative electrode ends of batteries 22 and 23, and battery housing cathode 80, are insulated from the battery housing 20 by cathode insulator 81. Positive lead wire 40 from motor 24 is attached to the inner periphery of vibrator housing 16. Negative lead wire 38 is fed through passage 52 in vibrator housing 16, where it terminates at vibrator housing cathode 57. Vibrator housing cathode 57 is insulated from vibrator housing 16 by vibrator housing insulator 58.

[0081] As further shown in FIG. 15, the threaded terminal end 19 of vibrator housing 16 is screwed into battery housing 20. When vibrator housing 16 is screwed into place, the parallel circuit between batteries 22 and 23, and motor 24, is completed as the negative ends of batteries 22 and 23 within battery housing 20 communicate through battery housing cathode 80 to vibrator housing cathode 57. When vibrator housing 16 is screwed into place, the positive anode ends of batteries 22 and 23 communicate with positive motor lead wire 40 through vibrator housing 16, battery housing 20, and battery end caps 14.

[0082] A person wearing jewelry 10 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down vibrator housing 16 to the point at which its vibrator housing cathode 57 engages battery housing cathode 80, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of vibrator housing 16. This inventive on off switch feature limits the necessary moving parts of the design to none other than the vibrator itself.

[0083]FIG. 11 shows a person wearing this battery powered embodiment of jewelry 10 as a barbell style tongue piercing by attaching jewelry 10 to a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer 21. FIG. 12 shows a person without a pierced tongue wearing this battery powered embodiment of jewelry 10 by using the drilled elastomeric band 64.

[0084]FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of an externally powered embodiment of the invention. Jewelry 10 is shown in FIG. 16 as comprised of vibrator housing 16, vibrator motor cap 13, power adapter body 94, and external wires 62. In this embodiment, power adapter body 94 provides a connection between the vibrator and an external power supply. The vibrator is comprised of electromagnetic motor 24, shaft 42, and eccentric rotor 44. Motor 24 is secured within vibrator housing 16, and enclosed by vibrator motor cap 13. Positive lead wire 40 from motor 24 is attached to the inner periphery of vibrator housing 16. Negative lead wire 38 is fed through passage 52 in vibrator housing 16, where it terminates at vibrator housing cathode 57. Vibrator housing cathode 57 is insulated from vibrator housing 16 by vibrator housing insulator 58.

[0085] As further shown in FIG. 16, the threaded terminal end 19 of vibrator housing 16 is screwed into power adapter body 94. When vibrator housing 16 is screwed into place, the circuit between motor 24 and an external power supply connected to wires 62 is completed as the negative lead of wires 62 communicates with vibrator housing cathode 57 through power adapter body cathode 90. When vibrator housing 16 is screwed into place, the positive lead of wires 62 communicates with positive motor lead wire 40 through vibrator housing 16, power adapter body 94, and power adapter anode 96. The cathode negative electrode lead of wires 62, power adapter cathode 90, and vibrator housing cathode 57, are insulated from the power adapter body 94 by cathode insulator 81.

[0086] A person wearing jewelry 10 as a barbell style tongue piercing may turn on the vibrator by screwing down vibrator housing 16 to the point at which its vibrator housing cathode 57 engages power adapter cathode 90, and then turn off the vibrator by slightly backing off the threads of vibrator housing 16. This inventive on off switch feature limits the necessary moving parts of the design to none other than the vibrator itself.

[0087]FIG. 13 shows a person wearing this externally powered embodiment of jewelry 10 as a barbell style tongue piercing by attaching jewelry 10 to a standard barbell stud with a drilled retainer 21. FIG. 14 shows a person without a pierced tongue wearing this externally powered embodiment of jewelry 10 by using the drilled elastomeric band 64.

[0088] A further embodiment of the invention includes accessories comprising sheaths with alternative configurations designed to cover at least a portion of the body jewelry and provide varying surface features for the jewelry.

[0089]FIGS. 17A through 20A are side views of alternative configurations of sheaths designed as accessories for the energized body jewelry. FIGS. 17B through 20B are cross sectional views of each of these alternative configurations of sheath accessories. The sheaths are designed to cover at least a portion of the vibratory housing of the energized body jewelry and provide varying surface features for the jewelry. As can be seen in the drawings, each of these alternative configurations provides for a unique surface configuration to enhance the functional aspects of the jewelry. In addition, the sheaths may function as a protective covering for the energized body jewelry by reducing the surface hardness of the jewelry and softening the impact of the jewelry when it contacts a person's teeth or other sensitive areas of the body.

[0090] Further alternative embodiments of this invention, which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, include the placement of this inventive jewelry on parts of the body other than the tongue, the modification of the vibrator mechanism to include any of several known alternative structures for creating vibrations, and the use of light emitters in addition to or in place of the vibrator mechanism.

[0091] It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses any and all embodiments within the scope of the following claims. 

31) An apparatus comprising: an elongated post with a first end and a second end; a retainer connected to the first end of the post; a housing body connected to the second end of the post; and the housing body enclosing an illuminating light source. 32) An apparatus according to claim 31 in which: the retainer is a threaded ball that is removably connected to the first end of the post. 33) An apparatus according to claim 31 in which: the housing body is removably connected to the second end of the post. 34) An apparatus according to claim 31 in which: the illuminating light source is a light emitting diode. 35) An apparatus according to claim 34 in which: an electric power source is located external to the apparatus and connected to the light emitting diode by wires. 36) An apparatus according to claim 34 in which: the housing body encloses an electric power source. 37) An apparatus according to claim 36 in which: the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode. 38) An apparatus according to claim 36 in which: the electric power source is a battery having a positive pole and a negative pole; and the light emitting diode has a positive lead wire and a negative lead wire. 39) An apparatus according to claim 34 in which: the retainer encloses an electric power source. 40) An apparatus according to claim 39 in which: the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode. 41) An apparatus according to claim 39 in which: the electric power source is a battery having a positive pole and a negative pole; and the light emitting diode has a positive lead wire and a negative lead wire. 42) An apparatus according to claim 38 with: the housing body having a first end and a second end; a battery cap attached to the first end of the housing body; and an illuminator cap attached to the second end of the housing body. 43) An apparatus according to claim 42 in which: the negative pole of the battery is connected to the negative lead wire of the light emitting diode; the battery cap engages the positive pole of the battery; the battery cap is electrically connected with the post through mutual communication with the housing body; the first end of the elongated post has a tip electrically insulated from the post; the tip is connected to the positive lead wire of the light emitting diode; and the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode when the retainer engages the tip. 44) An apparatus according to claim 42 in which: the positive pole of the battery is connected to the positive lead wire of the light emitting diode; the battery cap engages the negative pole of the battery; the battery cap is electrically connected with the post through mutual communication with the housing body; the first end of the elongated post has a tip electrically insulated from the post; the tip is connected to the negative lead wire of the light emitting diode; and the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode when the retainer engages the tip. 45) An apparatus according to claim 36 with: the retainer enclosing a secondary electric power source; 46) An apparatus according to claim 45 in which: the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power sources and the light emitting diode. 47) An apparatus according to claim 36 with: the housing body having a first end and a second end; a battery cap attached to the first end of the housing body; an illuminator cap attached to the second end of the housing body; the retainer enclosing a secondary electric power source; the retainer having a first end and a second end; and a secondary battery cap attached to the first end of the retainer. 48) An apparatus according to claim 47 in which: the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power sources and the light emitting diode when the retainer is connected to the first end of the post. 49) An apparatus according to claim 41 with: the retainer having a first end and a second end; and a battery cap attached to the first end of the retainer. 50) An apparatus according to claim 49 in which: the positive lead wire of the light emitting diode is connected to the housing body; the positive lead wire of the light emitting diode is electrically connected with the post through mutual communication with the housing body; the first end of the elongated post has a tip electrically insulated from the post; the tip is connected to the negative lead wire of the light emitting diode; and the battery cap attached to the retainer engages the positive pole of the battery in the retainer; the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode when the retainer engages the tip. 51) An apparatus according to claim 49 in which: the negative lead wire of the light emitting diode is connected to the housing body; the negative lead wire of the light emitting diode is electrically connected with the post through mutual communication with the housing body; the first end of the elongated post has a tip electrically insulated from the post; the tip is connected to the positive lead wire of the light emitting diode; and the battery cap attached to the retainer engages the negative pole of the battery in the retainer; the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power source and the light emitting diode when the retainer engages the tip. 52) An apparatus according to claim 39 with: the retainer enclosing a secondary electric power source; 53) An apparatus according to claim 52 in which: the retainer bridges an electrical connection between the electric power sources and the light emitting diode. 54) An apparatus according to claim 31 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 55) An apparatus according to claim 34 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 56) An apparatus according to claim 35 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 57) An apparatus according to claim 36 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 58) An apparatus according to claim 39 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 59) An apparatus according to claim 45 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 60) An apparatus according to claim 52 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; a second retainer attached to the first end of the second elongated post; a third retainer attached to the second end of the second elongated post; and the third retainer releasably attached to the first elongated post. 61) An apparatus according to claim 31 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 62) An apparatus according to claim 34 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 63) An apparatus according to claim 35 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 64) An apparatus according to claim 36 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 65) An apparatus according to claim 39 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 66) An apparatus according to claim 45 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 67) An apparatus according to claim 52 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 77) An apparatus according to claim 39 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; the second end of the second elongated post connected to the housing; a second retainer connected to the first end of the second elongated post; the second retainer enclosing an electric power source. 78) An apparatus according to claim 77 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 81) An apparatus according to claim 36 further comprising: a second elongated post with a first end and a second end; the second end of the second elongated post connected to the housing; a second retainer connected to the first end of the second elongated post. 82) An apparatus according to claim 81 further comprising: an elastomeric band for attaching the apparatus to one's body. 83) An apparatus comprising: a first housing body with a terminal end; the first housing body enclosing an illuminating light source; the terminal end of the first housing body connected to a second housing; the second housing enclosing a power source; the first housing body removably connected to a drilled retainer; the drilled retainer removably connected to a barbell stud; and the barbell stud removably connected to a second retainer. 84) An apparatus comprising: a first housing body with a terminal end; the first housing body enclosing an illuminating light source; the terminal end of the first housing body connected to a second housing; the second housing connected to an external power source. the first housing body removably connected to a drilled retainer; the drilled retainer removably connected to a barbell stud; and the barbell stud removably connected to a second retainer. 85) An apparatus comprising: a first housing body with a terminal end; the first housing body enclosing an illuminating light source; the terminal end of the first housing body connected to a second housing; the second housing enclosing a power source; and the first housing body removably connected to a drilled elastomeric band. 86) An apparatus comprising: a first housing body with a terminal end; the first housing body enclosing an illuminating light source; the terminal end of the first housing body connected to a second housing; the second housing connected to an external power source; and the first housing body removably connected to a drilled elastomeric band. 